Shakib bludgeons Zimbabwe

Shakib Al Hasan continues to grow in stature as a fine all-round player for Bangladesh, stroking 104 in Bulawayo

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An explosive century from Shakib Al Hasan helped Bangladesh beat Zimbabwe by 49 runs in a high-scoring second one-day international in Bulawayo.

Shakib’s 104 and 79 from Tamim Iqbal saw Bangladesh set the hosts an imposing target of 321 - and despite a brave effort, it proved a hurdle too far as Zimbabwe were all out for 271 with 23 balls to spare.

Bangladesh’s aggressive style was clear for all to see as four of the eight wickets to fall were run-outs, including both openers.

But it was the stand-in captain who brought the real fireworks, Shakib smashing 10 fours and four sixes as he reached 104 off just 64 balls - before he too was run out attempting to squeeze a third run.

Tamim was unlucky to be run out by a direct hit, while fellow opener Junaid Siddique was looking for a quick single to add to his 27 when he went.

Of the Zimbabwe bowlers, Elton Chigumbura emerged from the onslaught with a little credit - taking 3-59.

Zimbabwe kept up the scoring rate, but early wickets proved their undoing as openers Mark Vermeulen and Hamilton Masakadza failed to get going.

Charles Coventry came in at number three and made 61, and Sean Williams was part of a 78-run sixth-wicket partnership with Stuart Matsikenyeri before departing for 75.

Bangladesh lead the five-match series 2-0.